Winter Engagement at North Avenue Beach

Chicago, Illinois

Winter engagement sessions will always have my heart! Mariclare and Mike’s North Avenue Beach session last winter is the perfect example of why.

It’s no secret that I love wintertime and snow… And there is something so magical about Chicago in the winter! The lake feels a little moodier, the skyline feels extra dramatic, and the quiet beaches create the most romantic backdrop. Add in a fun, sweet couple like these two, and it becomes one of those sessions I absolutely love.

Mariclare was deep in law school at the time, so most of the planning conversations happened with her mom, Mary Pat, who was an absolute joy to work with. On the day of the session, Mariclare and Mike showed up ready to embrace the experience, and that is truly all you need. From the moment we started shooting, they were such naturals in front of the camera, even on a chilly winter day.

If you are on the fence about a winter engagement session, let this be your sign! Winter sessions are not only stunning, but they can also be so fun with the right mindset and a little preparation. Here are a few of my favorite winter engagement session tips inspired by Mariclare and Mike’s session at North Avenue Beach.

First, layers are your best friend. Trust me! Winter is the perfect excuse to bring out that chic peacoat, a cozy wrap, or even a statement fur coat. Jackets photograph beautifully and add so much texture and personality to your images. We can always do a mix of bundled up and without coats for variety!

Second, lean into the cozy factor. Packing hot cocoa or grabbing a Starbucks coffee on the way to your session is always a win. Not only does it help keep your hands warm, but it’s even a fun prop for photos sometimes.

Third, know that breaks are not only allowed, but they are totally encouraged. I promise I am never trying to freeze my couples! We take breaks to warm up throughout the session, and yes, sometimes that means hopping back into the car with the heat running for a few minutes before heading back out. Winter sessions are a team effort!

Most importantly, trust the process. Winter and snow photos are some of my absolute favorites. There is a quiet, romantic energy to them that you just cannot recreate any other time of year. When couples are willing to brave the season together, it always results in images that feel beautiful and unmatched.

Mariclare and Mike embraced the cold, laughed through it, and trusted me every step of the way. Their North Avenue Beach engagement session is proof that winter sessions can be just as joyful and beautiful as any summer evening!

If you are dreaming of a winter engagement session, I am always ready to bundle up, chase that soft winter light, and capture your story in a way that feels true to you. Just bring the layers, and I’ll bring the hand warmers!

To see more engagement sessions like these winter engagement photos at North Avenue Beach, click here.

If you are engaged and looking for a timeless, classic and joyful wedding photographer in the Chicagoland area or around the world, contact me here or email me at karen@karenshoufler.com.